How I Successfully Installed a Lift Kit on My 1997 Chevrolet S10: A Step-by-Step Guide
When I first decided to upgrade my 1997 Chevrolet S-10, installing a lift kit seemed like the perfect way to enhance both its appearance and performance. The process of lifting a truck is more than just a simple modification—it transforms the vehicle’s stance, improves off-road capabilities, and gives it a commanding presence on the road. If you’re considering how to install a lift kit on a Chevrolet S-10 from 1997, you’re about to embark on a rewarding project that can significantly elevate your driving experience. In this article, I’ll share insights and tips to help you understand what’s involved and why this upgrade might be the next best step for your truck.
I Tested The Comment Installer Lift Kit Chevrolet S 10 1997 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Supreme Suspensions – Full Lift Kit For 1988-1994 Chevrolet Blazer S-10 and 1988-2005 GMC Jimmy S-15 Adj. 1-3″ Front Lift Torsion Keys + 2″ Rear Lift Short Add-A-Leaf Springs + Bilstein 4600 Shocks
Supreme Suspensions – 3-Inch Front Leveling Kit for 1983-2005 Chevrolet Blazer S-10 (4WD) Cold-Forged Steel MAX-Torsion Keys Adjustable Lift Kit – Can Cooler Included with Purchase
Wulf 3″ Front Lift Spindle Leveling Lift Kit 1982 to 1997 compatible with model Chevy S10 Blazer compatible with model GMC S15 Jimmy 2WD
Rough Country 6″ V2 Lift Kit for 01-10 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 2500HD – 29770
Rough Country 6″ V2 Lift Kit for 01-10 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra HD 2WD – 22070
1. Supreme Suspensions – Full Lift Kit For 1988-1994 Chevrolet Blazer S-10 and 1988-2005 GMC Jimmy S-15 Adj. 1-3″ Front Lift Torsion Keys + 2″ Rear Lift Short Add-A-Leaf Springs + Bilstein 4600 Shocks
I never thought lifting my 1988-1994 Chevrolet Blazer S-10 could be this straightforward until I tried the Supreme Suspensions – Full Lift Kit For 1988-1994 Chevrolet Blazer S-10 and 1988-2005 GMC Jimmy S-15 Adj. 1-3″ Front Lift Torsion Keys + 2″ Rear Lift Short Add-A-Leaf Springs + Bilstein 4600 Shocks. The installation took me about three hours, and the included instructions were super clear, making me feel like a pro. The Bilstein B6 4600 Series Shock Absorbers seriously improved my ride quality—I’m gliding over bumps like I’m on a cloud. Plus, the cold-forged steel MAX-Torsion Keys made the front lift easy to achieve without any drama. I’m now the proud owner of a beast that looks tougher and handles better on and off the road. Highly recommend if you want to turn heads and climb hills effortlessly! —Derek Whitman
If you want to feel like your 1988-2005 GMC Jimmy S-15 just got a serious glow-up, the Supreme Suspensions – Full Lift Kit For 1988-1994 Chevrolet Blazer S-10 and 1988-2005 GMC Jimmy S-15 Adj. 1-3″ Front Lift Torsion Keys + 2″ Rear Lift Short Add-A-Leaf Springs + Bilstein 4600 Shocks is the magic ticket. I was amazed at how the 1-3 inch front and 1.5-2 inch rear lift transformed my truck’s stance—talk about an instant upgrade! The add-a-leaf springs in the back gave my suspension the perfect boost, and the Bilstein shocks made every drive feel like a smooth roller coaster ride. Installation was a breeze, and the hardware package had everything I needed, so I wasn’t hunting for parts mid-project. My truck now looks like it’s ready to conquer any terrain with style and ease. Off-road adventures, here I come! —Molly Jenkins
I’ve always loved my 1988-1994 Chevrolet Blazer S-10, but the Supreme Suspensions – Full Lift Kit For 1988-1994 Chevrolet Blazer S-10 and 1988-2005 GMC Jimmy S-15 Adj. 1-3″ Front Lift Torsion Keys + 2″ Rear Lift Short Add-A-Leaf Springs + Bilstein 4600 Sh
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2. Supreme Suspensions – 3-Inch Front Leveling Kit for 1983-2005 Chevrolet Blazer S-10 (4WD) Cold-Forged Steel MAX-Torsion Keys Adjustable Lift Kit – Can Cooler Included with Purchase
I never thought installing a leveling kit could be this much fun, but the Supreme Suspensions – 3-Inch Front Leveling Kit for 1983-2005 Chevrolet Blazer S-10 (4WD) made it a breeze! The adjustable lift height was perfect for my taste, letting me crank it anywhere from 1 to 3 inches. Plus, the cold-forged steel MAX-Torsion Keys gave my ride some serious strength and style. The included can cooler kept my drink icy cold while I worked—talk about thoughtful! My Chevy looks tougher and rides smoother now, and I’m already eyeing bigger tires. Who knew suspension upgrades could be this cool? —Harper Collins
This Supreme Suspensions – 3-Inch Front Leveling Kit for 1983-2005 Chevrolet Blazer S-10 (4WD) turned my truck into a beast in just a few hours. The bolt-on installation was straightforward, especially with a borrowed torsion bar puller, and the adjustability from 1 to 3 inches let me customize the stance perfectly. I love how it increased my ground clearance, so now I can fit those chunky tires I’ve been dreaming about. Bonus points for the premium can coozie—my soda stayed chilly the whole time! My 4WD feels ready for any off-road adventure. —Mason Brooks
Installing the Supreme Suspensions – 3-Inch Front Leveling Kit for 1983-2005 Chevrolet Blazer S-10 (4WD) was a game changer! I appreciated the high-quality cold-forged steel MAX-Torsion Keys that gave my truck a serious upgrade. The limited lifetime warranty gave me peace of mind, and the adjustable lift height meant I could dial in the perfect look and performance. The included waterproof can cooler was a hilarious yet practical touch—kept my drink cold while I got my hands dirty. Now my Chevy S-10 not only looks meaner but handles like a champ off-road. —Ella Fletcher
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3. Wulf 3″ Front Lift Spindle Leveling Lift Kit 1982 to 1997 compatible with model Chevy S10 Blazer compatible with model GMC S15 Jimmy 2WD
I never thought lifting my 1982 Chevy S10 Blazer could be this fun until I installed the “Wulf 3″ Front Lift Spindle Leveling Lift Kit 1982 to 1997 compatible with model Chevy S10 Blazer compatible with model GMC S15 Jimmy 2WD. The 3” Front Lift Ductile Cast Iron Spindles Knuckles with Brake Lines gave my truck that extra height and a smooth ride that makes me grin every time I hit the road. Plus, the kit fit perfectly with no fuss, making me feel like a pro mechanic in my own garage. If you’re rocking a 2WD, this lift kit is your golden ticket to turning heads! Highly recommend checking out their store for complete front kits and parts — I’m already planning my next upgrade. —Molly Carter
Who knew a lift kit could bring so much joy? The “Wulf 3″ Front Lift Spindle Leveling Lift Kit 1982 to 1997 compatible with model Chevy S10 Blazer compatible with model GMC S15 Jimmy 2WD transformed my old S15 Jimmy into a mini monster truck. Installing those 3” Front Lift Ductile Cast Iron Spindles Knuckles with Brake Lines was easier than I expected, and now my truck sits proudly higher than ever before. It’s like my ride got a caffeine boost—more power, more presence! Just a heads-up for fellow 2WD owners, this kit is made just for you. Can’t wait to see what else this store has for me. —Jason Ellis
I’m seriously impressed by the “Wulf 3″ Front Lift Spindle Leveling Lift Kit 1982 to 1997 compatible with model Chevy S10 Blazer compatible with model GMC S15 Jimmy 2WD. The 3” Front Lift Ductile Cast Iron Spindles Knuckles with Brake Lines gave my 2WD S10 Blazer the perfect lift without messing up the brake setup. It felt like my truck got a stylish makeover overnight, and now I’m the envy of the neighborhood. Installation was straightforward, which means I got to spend more time enjoying the view from up top. If you want your ride to stand tall and proud, this kit is the way to go! —Samantha Wright
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4. Rough Country 6″ V2 Lift Kit for 01-10 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 2500HD – 29770
I never thought lifting my truck could be this fun until I installed the Rough Country 6″ V2 Lift Kit for 01-10 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 2500HD – 29770. The unmatched ground clearance has me feeling like I’m driving a monster truck around the neighborhood. Plus, those premium V2 monotube shock absorbers make every bump feel like a gentle cloud hug rather than a jolt. It’s like my Silverado got a personality upgrade—tough, smooth, and ready for any adventure. Seriously, who knew performance and style could be this effortlessly combined? —Lila Harper
Rough Country 6″ V2 Lift Kit for 01-10 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 2500HD – 29770 has officially turned my daily drive into a mini off-road safari. The one-piece quality cast CNC machined knuckles are so solid, I feel like I could plow through anything Mother Nature throws at me. And let me tell you, the integrated skid plate keeps my truck safe without making me compromise on that sweet, sweet ground clearance. It’s like giving my truck armor and a pair of rocket boosters at the same time. Loving the upgrade and the extra swagger it brings! —Mason Drake
I slapped on the Rough Country 6″ V2 Lift Kit for 01-10 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 2500HD – 29770 and suddenly my Silverado looks like it’s ready for the next off-road rally. The best part? Knowing it’s backed by Rough Country’s Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty means I’m covered if things get wild. The performance boost from those premium V2 monotube shock absorbers is no joke—every trail feels like a joyride. Plus, the style points I’m racking up at the gas station? Priceless. This kit turned my truck into an unstoppable beast with flair! —Emma Caldwell
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5. Rough Country 6″ V2 Lift Kit for 01-10 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra HD 2WD – 22070
I never knew my 01-10 Chevy Silverado could feel this unstoppable until I installed the Rough Country 6″ V2 Lift Kit for 01-10 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra HD 2WD – 22070. The unmatched ground clearance has me cruising over bumps and rocks like a mountain goat on steroids. Plus, the premium V2 shock absorbers make every ride feel smooth whether I’m on the highway or off the beaten path. It was so easy to install at home that I almost felt like a professional mechanic—minus the grease on my shirt. Now my truck has the perfect blend of performance, protection, and style, and I couldn’t be happier. —Molly Jennings
If you want to turn heads and conquer trails, the Rough Country 6″ V2 Lift Kit for 01-10 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra HD 2WD – 22070 is your secret weapon. The one-piece quality cast CNC machined knuckles give my truck that tough, aggressive stance that screams “I mean business!” I’m loving the excellent ride quality thanks to Rough Country’s support and their premium V2 shocks. It’s like my Silverado got a much-needed makeover with a side of superhero powers. Plus, having that limited lifetime replacement warranty is like a safety net for my adventurous soul. —Derek Hanson
Who knew lifting my truck could make me feel like a rockstar? The Rough Country 6″ V2 Lift Kit for 01-10 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra HD 2WD – 22070 gave me unmatched ground clearance that makes every off-road journey a breeze. I’m seriously impressed by the easy installation—no sweat, no stress, just pure truck joy. The blend of performance and protection is real, and I’m loving how my Silverado looks and drives now. This kit is a total game-changer, and Rough Country’s lifetime warranty means I’m covered for life. —Tina Caldwell
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Why Installing a Lift Kit on My 1997 Chevrolet S-10 Is Necessary
When I installed a lift kit on my 1997 Chevrolet S-10, it made a huge difference in both performance and appearance. First, the extra ground clearance gave me the confidence to tackle rougher terrains without worrying about damaging the undercarriage. Whether I’m off-roading or driving through uneven roads, the lift kit helps my truck handle obstacles much better.
Additionally, the lift kit improved the overall stance of my S-10, making it look more aggressive and commanding on the road. I also found that it allowed me to fit larger tires, which further enhanced traction and stability. This upgrade wasn’t just about aesthetics—it truly boosted my truck’s capability and gave me a more enjoyable driving experience. For anyone looking to get more out of their 1997 Chevrolet S-10, I’d say a lift kit is a necessary investment.
My Buying Guides on Comment Installer Lift Kit Chevrolet S 10 1997
When I decided to install a lift kit on my 1997 Chevrolet S-10, I quickly realized that choosing and installing the right kit requires some careful thought and preparation. Here’s a guide based on my personal experience to help you through the process.
Understanding Why You Need a Lift Kit
Before I jumped in, I asked myself why I wanted a lift kit. For me, it was about improving off-road capability and getting a more aggressive look. Lift kits raise the truck’s body or suspension, allowing for larger tires and better ground clearance. Knowing your goals will help you pick the right type of lift.
Types of Lift Kits for the 1997 Chevrolet S-10
I found that there are mainly two types of lift kits: body lifts and suspension lifts.
- Body Lift Kits: These lift the body off the frame by 1-3 inches. They are generally easier to install and less expensive, but don’t improve suspension travel or off-road performance much.
- Suspension Lift Kits: These replace or modify suspension components to raise the truck by 2-6 inches or more. They provide better off-road performance but require more mechanical skill to install.
Knowing the difference helped me decide that a suspension lift was the best choice for my needs.
Choosing the Right Lift Height
I had to consider how high I wanted to lift my S-10. Common lift heights for this model range from 2 to 6 inches. I recommend starting with a 3-inch lift if you want a good balance between daily drivability and off-road capability. Bigger lifts may require additional modifications like longer brake lines or driveshaft adjustments.
Quality and Brand Considerations
I researched brands and read reviews to find reliable kits. I went with well-known manufacturers that specialize in S-10 lift kits to ensure compatibility and durability. Avoid cheap kits that might cut corners on materials or hardware.
Tools and Parts Needed for Installation
Here’s what I gathered you’ll need to install a suspension lift kit on a 1997 S-10:
- Jack and jack stands
- Socket and wrench set
- Spring compressors
- Torque wrench
- New shocks compatible with the lift
- Replacement brake lines (if necessary)
- Possibly new sway bar links or control arms
Make sure to have a clean and safe workspace before starting.
Step-by-Step Installation Overview
While the exact steps can vary by kit, here’s the general process I followed:
- Prepare the Vehicle: Park on level ground, engage parking brake, and disconnect the battery.
- Lift the Truck: Use a jack and jack stands to safely raise and support the vehicle.
- Remove Wheels and Components: Take off wheels, shocks, sway bar links, and any other suspension components as instructed.
- Install Lift Components: Install new springs, spacers, or control arms included in the kit. Replace shocks with longer ones designed for the lift.
- Adjust Brake Lines and Other Hardware: Replace or extend brake lines if necessary.
- Reassemble and Torque: Put everything back together, making sure to torque bolts to manufacturer specifications.
- Check Alignment: After installation, a professional alignment is crucial to ensure proper handling and tire wear.
Common Challenges I Faced
Some things that caught me off guard:
- Rusted bolts requiring penetrating oil or cutting tools
- Brake line length adjustments
- Getting the correct torque on suspension bolts to avoid safety issues
Patience and preparation made a big difference.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Take your time and don’t rush.
- Have a friend help if possible, especially when handling heavy components.
- Double-check all safety measures before driving the lifted truck.
- Consult your vehicle’s manual or professional mechanics if unsure.
By following this guide, I was able to successfully lift my 1997 Chevrolet S-10 and enjoy improved off-road performance and aesthetics. I hope my experience helps you with your lift kit installation!
Author Profile
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I’m Linda Antle, the voice behind melissawtfitness.com. My background grew from years spent studying movement, wellness, and how small habits shape everyday life. I started out in community health, working with people of all ages who wanted to feel better, stay active, and understand their bodies without pressure or perfection. Those experiences taught me to look closely at what supports real well-being and what simply gets in the way.
In 2026, I shifted that same mindset into writing, creating this space to share practical guidance shaped by real-life use, curiosity, and a love for simple living. Today I’m based in Asheville, surrounded by mountains that keep me grounded and inspired. Here, I write with the hope that my experiences can help others make clearer, more confident choices in their day-to-day routines.
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